Interface Considerations for a Hybrid Control System Using Programmable Controllers and Distributed Control Systems, 1991 Process Control, Electrical & Info. Conference Proceedings

This paper discusses what a user should evaluate when determining whether to configure a hybrid control system using both the programmable controller and distributed control system(DCS). The user must consider issues related to 1) the environment for which it was designed, 2) troubleshooting, and documentation, and 3) coupling of the system with the process being controlled.

After the decision to configure a hybrid control system has been made, the user must evaluate between the many different interfaces that are provided between the programmable controller and DCS. The interfaces must provide for real-time control through the "single window" provided by the DCS, and for the information archival requirements of electronic data interchange(EDI) and statistical process control(SPC). These issues are discussed in detail.

Finally, a comparison between what current interfaces typically provide and what future interfaces should provide will be made. In addition, the role of standards as a solution to providing these interfaces are discussed.